Austin is known for being a bit odd. But, it’s also become a bit of a donut Mecca. While they may not be as well-known as New York City or Seattle, Austin’s collection of fried sweets is gaining prominence.
If you are craving something sweet, you may just find your next favorite donut spot. Below are five Austin donut shops that are worth a visit.
Mrs. Johnson’s Bakery
4909 Airport Blvd Austin, TX 78751
Mrs. Johnson, you’re trying to seduce me, aren’t you? This local no-frills donut purveyor has been making authentic donuts since 1948.
The real dangerous part about these fresh-made fried globs of dough is that they have a drive-through window, and they’re open seven days a week. It’s a good thing Austin is a fairly good walking city.
Mrs. Johnson’s Bakery offers classic donut favorites, such as apple fritters, donut holes, Bavarian cream filled, and their Famous Glazed Donuts. It’s important to note that there are plenty of other goodies available as well, such as fresh cookies and brownies, and the Kolache, a Czech pastry with sausage that’s popular in Texas (for a good reason).
For a little something traditional in a city with a youthful energy, old-school donuts by Mrs. Johnson can’t be beaten.
Bougie’s Donuts
5400 Brodie Ln Unit #930, Sunset Valley, TX 78745
Watch any travel show on TV, and you’ll quickly learn that Austin is a foodie’s paradise. Because Bougie’s Donuts is a clear supporter of elevated foods, they brand themselves as a full-service espresso bar and gourmet donut eatery.
What makes a donut more “gourmet” than your average fast food offering? After all, at first glance, the donuts at Bougie’s are round and glazed like anywhere else.
For a change of pace, try their twists on the classics. You can’t go wrong with an Orange Cinnadough, a not-so-classic Cake Donut, or a chocolate and bacon pairing.
Can you own an Austin donut shop without at least one reference to The Simpsons? While they don’t have any donuts that look just like Bart, you can order the Strawberry Homer, a yeast donut that is frosted pink and covered in sprinkles, just like they do in Springfield.
Angel Donuts
8300 North FM 620 Building A, Suite 200 Austin, Texas 78726
The donuts at Angel Donuts must be heaven-sent. With a mix of traditional and new classics, Angel Donuts, seemingly taking notes from both Mrs. Johnson and Bougie’s Donuts by offering old favorites, fresh original donuts, and even Kolaches.
Unlike other shops, Angel Donuts is a full-fledged bakery. In addition to their delicious donuts, you can find Brownie Bites, Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches, Macrons, Cake Balls, and much more.
The drink menu is every bit as impressive as their treats. They offer a full list of teas and coffees, including Café Du Monde, Bubble Teas, and café favorites like macchiatos.
Little Lucy’s
74 Rainey St Austin, TX 78701
Little Lucy’s is the “Hello Kitty” of the Austin donut scene, and it’s clear to see how she fits right in. Served from an adorable bright pink food truck, these donuts are tiny and delicious. Each order of Little Lucy’s small treats even come in a matching pink bag.
These popcorn chicken-equivalents are great for a snack or with coffee. You can find Little Lucy’s around Austin, but the truck seems to frequent Rainer Street because -let’s be honest- donuts and beer sound like the adult snack of champions.
Big Kahuna Donuts
2900 N Quinlan Park Rd #110, Austin, TX 78732
Not to be confused with the fictional burger chain, these donuts are very much real. Big Kahuna Donuts takes what it does seriously by offering non-GMO ingredients, gluten-free donut options, and no high fructose corn syrup.
While that may not be enough to weasel in as a healthy breakfast suggestion, better ingredient donuts will taste better than your usual options at a gas station. These elevated donuts can be enjoyed as yeast donut, cake donut, donuts that are filled to the brim, and other classics.
A true family owned and operated venture, and you can stop by their store or their food truck. If you’re looking for true fresh donuts, it doesn’t get better than Big Kahuna Donuts.